When Derek Svanevik was asked to show up last Friday afternoon at Falcon Field, he wondered why. Woodinville’s summer baseball team was playing a doubleheader vs. Gonzaga Prep. But Svanevik had recently graduated and his prep career was officially over.

But right before the first game started, a short ceremony took place at home plate. Woodinville Baseball Club president Steve Simon took the microphone and announced that Svanevik was being awarded the first ever Terry Agnew WBC Player Scholarship Award. Svanevik received $500 to apply to his tuition costs this fall at Edmonds Community College, where he’ll continue his playing career.

Recently graduated outfielder Derek Svanevik (center) poses with his award following the ceremony. From left to right, WBC President Steve Simon, David Svanevik, Derek Svanevik, Doris Svanevik and Woodinville coach Alan Dillman, (Photo by Derek Johnson) The award was named after Terry Agnew, who served many years as Woodinville’s head baseball coach, and now presides as the school’s athletic director.

“When we came up with the idea of this scholarship award to honor Coach Agnew, we wanted to do something that wouldn’t be forgotten in the long run,” current head coach Alan Dillman said. “This was a neat way to honor Coach Agnew for all that he has done. All that being said, having Derek be the first person to win it, there couldn’t be a better person to win it. Derek cared more about Woodinville baseball than most students ever cared about their program.” Agnew, Dillman and Simon comprised the panel that made the selection. According to Dillman, they were all excited to give the award to someone like Svanevik.

“Coach Agnew coached both Derek and his older brother Carl — who also was a great player,” Dillman said. “I can’t say enough good things about Derek, he’s that good of a kid. He comes from a great family. It’s sad to see him leave, but I’m excited for the next chapter of his life. It’s not just his physical abilities, but his heart and attitude and enthusiasm that has been contagious to all of his teammates.”

Holding his certificate, Svanevik smiled and talked about changes he’d seen in himself.

“I’m just excited that all the work I’ve done here has been recognized by Coach Agnew,” Svanevik said. “At the start of the year, I wasn’t the best in talking in front of the team. I’ve always been one to joke around with my teammates, but in terms of being more vocal as a leader, I did more of that this year. I really grew a lot.”

Svanevik’s favorite memories at Woodinville included winning the KingCo championship his junior season, and hitting an inside-the-park home run vs. Redmond this year in the KingCo Tourney.

“We are very thankful to Coach Terry Agnew for this,” said Derek’s father, David Svanevik. “These have been great years for us, with both Derek and his older brother Carl. Wonderful years here at this ballpark. The coaches have been incredible.”